Cultural Immersion in Oaxaca with Friends

Chasing Waterfalls and Finding Serenity in Oaxaca

Today was a day of stark contrasts, from the breathtaking, almost otherworldly landscapes of Hierve el Agua to the hushed, spiritual atmosphere of the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo. It’s amazing how much Oaxaca has to offer, and I feel so fortunate to be experiencing it all with my friends. Each day brings new adventures and deeper connections to this vibrant culture.

Our day began early with a hearty breakfast at Calabacitas Tiernas. I had read so many good things about their vegetarian options, and it was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. The restaurant had a lovely, relaxed vibe, and it was a great spot to enjoy a leisurely meal before heading out. I opted for a traditional Oaxacan breakfast, which included *memelas* and *queso Oaxaca*. It was delicious, and I made a mental note to try making *memelas* when I get back to Berlin – a little taste of Oaxaca in my own kitchen! The staff were friendly, and the service was quick, which was exactly what we needed before our journey to Hierve el Agua.

The drive to Hierve el Agua was an adventure in itself. We decided to take a *colectivo*, which is a shared taxi. It was certainly a more local experience than taking a private car, and it gave us a chance to chat with some of the locals. The *colectivo* was packed, but everyone was friendly and in good spirits. As we drove through the Oaxacan countryside, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the scenery. The rolling hills, the vibrant green fields, and the small villages we passed through were all so picturesque. It was a far cry from the bustling streets of Berlin, and I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. Plus, it was a great way to practice my Spanish, even if my accent did make my friends giggle!

Finally, we arrived at Hierve el Agua, and it was even more stunning than I had imagined. The petrified waterfalls were truly a sight to behold, and the natural mineral springs were so refreshing. The landscape was lush and green, making it a perfect backdrop for photos. We spent hours hiking around, taking in the views, and soaking in the mineral-rich waters. It was so relaxing to just sit by the pools and let the warm water soothe my muscles after the hike. The views from the top were incredible, overlooking the valleys and mountains. I felt so small and insignificant in the face of such natural beauty.

The earth has music for those who listen.

One thing I hadn't fully prepared for was the intensity of the sun. Even though it's August, and the weather is generally warm, the altitude made the sun feel much stronger. I was glad I had packed sunscreen, but I definitely regretted forgetting my hat. I made a mental note to buy one tomorrow when we visit the Oaxaca Artisan Market [TripDetails].

After a few hours at Hierve el Agua, we were all feeling a bit peckish. We had skipped lunch, wanting to maximize our time at the falls, so we decided to head back to Oaxaca City for a late lunch. The *colectivo* ride back was just as lively as the ride there, filled with laughter and chatter.

Back in the city, we made our way to Casa Oaxaca el Restaurante for lunch. I had heard that it was one of the best restaurants in Oaxaca, and it certainly lived up to the hype. The restaurant had a beautiful courtyard, and the atmosphere was elegant and refined. We ordered a variety of traditional Oaxacan dishes, including *tlayudas* and, of course, mole. The food was incredible, and the service was impeccable. The flavors were so rich and complex, and I could tell that the ingredients were fresh and locally sourced. It was a true culinary experience, and I savored every bite. Hans would have loved this place; I’ll have to bring him here someday.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to spend the afternoon exploring the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo. This magnificent building has a rich history, having served as a Dominican convent, monastery, school, and public library. Today, it houses a cultural center and the Museum of Oaxacan Cultures. As we walked through the halls of the Ex-Convento, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence. The architecture was stunning, and the history was palpable. The intricate details of the facade, which was fully restored, were particularly impressive. The peacefulness of the inner courtyard provided a welcome respite from the bustling city outside. The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca was fascinating, showcasing the rich history and traditions of the region. I was particularly drawn to the exhibits on the Zapotec and Mixtec civilizations. It was incredible to see the artifacts and learn about the ancient cultures that had thrived in this area.

After soaking in the history and beauty of the Ex-Convento, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at Mezcalería In Situ. This place came highly recommended for its extensive selection of mezcals. As a nurse, I don't usually indulge in strong spirits, but when in Oaxaca, right? The owner was incredibly knowledgeable and guided us through a tasting of several different mezcals. Each one had a unique flavor profile, and I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the experience. It was a great way to learn about the local culture and traditions, and I even bought a small bottle of my favorite mezcal to take back to Berlin. I can already imagine sharing it with Hans and telling him all about my adventures in Oaxaca.

For dinner, we chose El Destilado, a restaurant known for its creative dishes and use of local ingredients. However, upon arrival, we discovered that the restaurant was permanently closed, which was a bit of a disappointment. We were all looking forward to trying their innovative cuisine, but sometimes things just don't go as planned. Instead of dwelling on the disappointment, we decided to embrace the unexpected and find another restaurant. After a quick search on my phone, we stumbled upon a charming little eatery just a few blocks away. It wasn't as fancy as El Destilado, but the food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was a reminder that sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't plan.

To end the day, we decided to revisit Mezcalería In Situ for one last drink. The atmosphere was lively and festive, and we enjoyed chatting with the locals and fellow travelers. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of exploring. As I sipped my mezcal, I reflected on all the amazing things we had seen and done today. From the natural wonders of Hierve el Agua to the spiritual sanctuary of the Ex-Convento de Santo Domingo, it had been a day of stark contrasts and unforgettable experiences.

Tomorrow, we’re planning to visit the Centro Cultural San Pablo and Benito Juárez National Park [TomorrowItinerary]. I’m particularly excited about the park; I’ve heard it’s a great place to escape the city and immerse oneself in nature [TomorrowItinerary]. I’m also looking forward to visiting the Oaxaca Artisan Market [TomorrowItinerary]. I need to find that hat I forgot, and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs for my loved ones back home.

As I write this, I’m feeling grateful for the opportunity to travel and experience new cultures. Oaxaca has already exceeded my expectations, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of our trip has in store. Goodnight from Oaxaca!